I Hated Trying On Jeans Until I Went to Madewell—5 Chic Pairs That Changed My Mind
Here's my fashion-editor review of the best Madewell jeans. You'll find vintage-inspired straight-leg jeans, Gen Z approved low-rise, baggy jeans, and utilitarian barrel-leg trousers perfect to wear all year long.
Putting aside my shopping-editor expertise and focusing on the fact that I own a lot of jeans, you could assume jeans are my favorite thing to shop for. But no, I hate shopping for jeans. I'm very picky about the fit, wash, and feel. They must be versatile, meaning they must be easy to dress up and down—emphasis on up. I love a cute jeans-and-heel combo, but after months of hearing from my fellow editors that Madewell jeans are the best and that no other denim compares, I decided to test them out.
Come with me as I try on and review my list of editor-approved Madewell jeans. Read all the must-know details, from sizing tips to how to style skinny jeans in 2026. (Yes, skinny jeans are back, and they look ultra-chic with an oversize blazer.) Below, you'll find the five best Madewell jeans of 2026. Think vintage-inspired straight-leg jeans, baggy and low-rise jeans, chic barrel-leg jeans, comfortable wide-leg pairs, and more. Style them with basics and chic Madewell new arrivals. Trust me—these are the jeans you'll be reaching for all year long. Scroll on to read my reviews and shop the best Madewell jeans.
The 5 Best Madewell Jeans of 2026
1. The Longline Straight Jean
My review: Fitted around the hips, waist, and thighs, these full-length jeans look and feel like they came straight out of my denim dreams. Dress them down with a boxy white tee and low-top sneakers for a '90s Kate Moss feel, or pair them with a collarless blazer and pointed-toe boots for a dinner-and-drinks look that is certain to turn heads. Whether you spring for the comfort stretch or rigid fit, the Longline Straight Jean will be a staple in your closet year-round.
Size range: 23 to 33
Inseam: Standard 30 inches, petite 27 inches, tall 33 inches
Washes: 5
Sizing tip: I prefer a snug fit since denim tends to stretch over time.
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2. The Darted Barrel-Leg Jean
My review: The barrel leg is a controversial denim style for some. I won't lie. I haven't taken to the curved-leg look like some of the fashion people I know. It's taken lots of convincing and many try-ons to find barrel jeans I like. The Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans feature a subtle curve, deep pockets, and a slightly cropped leg. Perhaps the understated silhouette is the reason I like it. It's playful, casual, and, most of all, under $200.
Size range: 23 to 33
Inseam: Standard 26 1/2 inches, petite 23 1/2 inches, tall 29 1/2 inches
Washes: 4
Sizing tip: The shorter inseam lends itself to a cropped look. If you're looking for full length, I recommend sizing up and opting for a low-rise fit.
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3. The Perfect Vintage Jean
My review: Soon, our reality will be cigarette jeans and slim-straight denim. The first step to embracing the skinny-jeans resurgence is picking up a pair of these Perfect Vintage Jeans on your next Madewell shopping spree. Giving you support at the waist, these slim-straight jeans have a true high-waisted fit. While not quite skintight jeggings, this skinny jeans adjacent denim is the closest I can accept (for now, at least). If you're curious about how to make skinny jeans look cool in 2026, try a white button-down tucked in or perhaps an oversize sculptural blazer.
Size range: 23 to 33
Inseam: Standard 29 inches, plus 28 1/2 inches, petite 26 1/2 inches, tall 31 inches
Washes: 2
Sizing tip: I'm 5'6", and these landed just above my ankles. If you're looking for a full-length pair of jeans, I suggest sizing up or checking the tall sizes.
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4. The Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean
My review: Here is a beautiful pair of jeans you'll be reaching for time and again. A wide-leg version of the Perfect Vintage Jeans, these high-waisted, full-length jeans fit snug around the waist and fall straight down from the hips. They're soft to the touch, and I could see myself pairing these wide-leg jeans with ballet flats, suede booties, or sporty sneakers. With just the right amount of pooling at the ankle, these vintage-inspired jeans could also work with heels.
Size range: 23 to 33
Inseam: Standard 31 inches, plus 30 1/2 inches, petite 28 inches, tall 34 inches
Washes: 4
Sizing tip: Though they're described as high waisted, I'd say these fit more mid-rise.
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5. Low-Slung Baggy Jean
My review: While I don't reach for relaxed jeans nearly as much as my Gen Z counterparts, my affection for baggy jeans is in my DNA. They're cool, grunge, and effortless. This style just happens to be ultra-comfortable. If you're so inclined, I highly recommend going in store to try these out. The Airy Denim is cloudlike. Elevate these low-rise, baggy pants (they're not low enough in my opinion, but that might be the Gen Zer in me talking) with a button-down, cardigan, and trench coat for a scholarly yet casual look.
Size range: 23 to 33
Inseam: Standard 30 inches, petite 27 inches, tall 33 inches
Washes: 3
Sizing tip: Be prepared for some serious pooling around your ankles. If you're into that, these are for you. If you're hesitant, I recommend the petite sizing.
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